CHESHIRE'S primary and junior school pupils have again beaten the national average for higher and expected levels of academic achievement.

This year's Key Stage Two figures at Level Four - the accepted standard for children transferring to secondary school - have been maintained or improved upon in results announced yesterday (Wednesday) by the DCSF.

A total of 85% attained level four in English which is 4% ahead of the national figure, with 81% in maths and 91% in science which are both three percent ahead of the national figure.

Of Cheshire's 7,600 primary and junior school children who sat the tests, 33% achieved the higher level in English (29% nationally), 35% in maths (31% nationally) and 49% in science (44%).

Last year the Cheshire totals were 38%, 37% and 50% respectively.

“Figures for Key Stage Two pupils continue to remain at a high level and that is down to the hard work of pupils and the dedication of their teachers,” said lead member for children's services David Rowlands.

“It is not easy to maintain such high standards and we have never been complacent.

“I wish our successor authorities well in their efforts to support and encourage children and schools to improve further, building on the sound foundations they inherit.”